September 28, 2022
Friends in Faith:
This coming Sunday, October 2, is "World Communion Sunday.” We'll be celebrating the grand diversity of Christ's church from around the world. Churches in countries near and far will join in communion together—so if you are worshiping from home, be sure to grab some bread and juice. You are also invited to bring in a cultural artifact, fabric, piece of art, etc. that is meaningful to you and place it on our communion table. Our scripture passage will be from John 1:35-43: Jesus calls his first disciples and invites them to "come and see."
We'll also be collecting donations (dry goods, canned goods, and financial gifts) for the SSIP Food Closet. After worship, during coffee hour, we'll be discussing chapter 7 of "Sailboat Church."
As always, the worship service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Gathering music by pianist Natalya Amelchenko starts around 10:20 a.m. Folks can join from home on Facebook. (You can also watch prior services at any time here.) Consider asking a friend to join you in person at the service … or start a “watch party” on your Facebook account!
UPDATES
On Sunday, October 9, immediately following worship, a short film will be presented in our Fellowship Hall entitled "The Chosen." This is a new series concerning the life of Jesus. A light lunch will be served.
On Sunday, October 16, we'll be participating in a Taize-style worship service. We'll also have the opportunity to walk a labyrinth—an ancient Christian practice for prayer, centering, and discernment. We also plan to discuss Chapter 8 of Sailboat Church after worship.
Sunday, October 23 is "Education Sunday.” We'll explain some of the practices and theology of Presbyterian worship service. Then, at 4 p.m, we'll be hosting our annual "Blessing of the Pets" in our parking lot. Come by to participate in this fun, informal time with our furry family members.
Sunday, October 30 is "Reformation Sunday.” We'll celebrate our unique voice in Christianity. Later in the day, at 3 p.m., all are invited to our "Trunk or Treat" event for children and families There will be food, games, treats—it's gonna be a lot of fun, so save the date!
Many churches, like Bethany, have remained somewhat fragmented after the pandemic. We have some older members in retirement homes, or others who have moved away. But even though we are sometimes far apart, we can still honor and celebrate the joys, concerns, and lives of our Bethany family. Here is the obituary of member Donna Roberts who passed away recently. Memorial services for Donna and for Gail Powell, who also passed away, will take place this fall. Details will be posted.
You are encouraged to send along news—happy or heavy—from our extended Bethany family. We would like to share your news during the Sunday worship service.
Please keep in your prayers those among us stricken with COVID-19 and other ailments … those recovering from surgery … and those who are traveling.
If you have a prayer concern you'd like to share with our church family, please let me or office manager Maria Mar know. We also have a special page on our web site dedicated to sharing prayer concerns; click here to send a prayer request by e-mail.
We lift our many prayers to our Lord, trusting that God hears our prayers and stands by us through good times and bad. John 14:27 declares, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
Jesse
